Date of publication: Feb 18, 2019

Junyi Chen

CEO & Founder: Gloture Co. Ltd.

Date of birth: April 29, 1989

Hometown: Tianjin, China

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 6.5 (as of February 2019)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved manga. I am not an otaku (geek), but the way manga characters are portrayed made me feel a special confidence, so when it was time to get my master’s degree, I chose Japan as my destination. I first came in 2012, studied Japanese language for one year and then got my master’s degree at the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies . Once I finished, I was so happy in Japan that I decided to stay and start my own company.

Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.

“It always seems impossible until it is done.” Even if things seem impossible, you need to encourage yourself until it is done — you need to keep believing in yourself and push yourself to go beyond your boundaries. I also apply this motto to my staff; I think it gives them the needed push to have the confidence they need to pursue the goals.

Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?

When I was 19, I opened my first business and I used what I learned at that time to open my company in Japan and make it a successful one. Our clients are some of the biggest international technology related startups and I am proud of seeing them returning for our services. I feel that I gained my space here as a foreign woman. I am also proud of the team I have.

Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?

I am planing to expand my business, hopefully early next year, to Shenzhen, China. I would like to keep expanding my company and the services we provide, including the recently launched e-commerce platform where we sell tech gadgets. I would also like to open a stylish and futuristic store where people can come and try the gadgets being sold at our e-commerce platform.

Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?

Japanese people have their own rules; when you come to Japan you are a guest, so you need to respect the rules, but it is important that you do it by keeping true to yourself. If you have a new idea, a solution or a proposal do not be afraid to say it — go for it. In a nation that its not our home country, we all need to bend a little, but keep your culture, be yourself. It is important that you do not try to be someone you are not.

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Last updated: Feb 18, 2019